ISLAMABAD: Attock Refinery Limited has suspended operations due to road closures linked to heightened security measures and the expected arrival of foreign delegations, raising concerns over fuel supply disruptions across the country.
According to refinery officials, the sudden halt in oil tanker movement has disrupted both crude oil supply and distribution of refined petroleum products. As a result, the refinery’s main crude distillation unit, with a daily capacity of 32,400 barrels, has been temporarily shut down.
The refinery has formally notified the Pakistan Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan about the development. Officials said traffic restrictions have significantly reduced crude oil intake while also hindering the transportation of petrol and diesel.
This disruption has led to an unusual buildup in motor spirit (petrol) and high-speed diesel stocks, alongside a sharp decline in crude supply, forcing the suspension of production.
Sources indicated that the shutdown may also impact oil production in Jhelum, Attock, and across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where oil fields could face operational halts.
As the only refinery serving northern regions—including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan—the disruption may have far-reaching consequences. Prolonged suspension could affect fuel supply to airports and critical defense operations.
The refinery has urged the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and the Petroleum Division to intervene and ensure uninterrupted movement of oil tankers, warning that continued disruption could trigger a severe energy crisis.
